Indian PM Modi’s Christmas Message: A Call for Unity Amidst Global Terrorism

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently ‍participated ⁣in several Christmas celebrations, ⁣underscoring a commitment to interfaith harmony. His presence at thes events,‍ however, was interwoven wiht a serious message about the global fight against terrorism, a message ​particularly resonant in light of recent attacks.

Addressing a Christmas program hosted by the catholic⁢ Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) in Delhi, Modi⁢ directly referenced the recent tragic attack at a German Christmas market and the 2019 Easter bombings in Sri Lanka. He stated, “It pains my heart when‌ there are attempts ‌to spread violence and cause disruptions in society. Just a few days ago,we saw⁢ what happened at a Christmas market in Germany. ⁣During Easter in 2019, churches in Sri Lanka ⁢were attacked.I ⁢went to Colombo to pay homage to those who lost their lives in the bombings. It is important to come together⁢ and‌ fight these challenges.”

Modi’s remarks connected the festive spirit of Christmas with the urgent need for global cooperation ⁢in combating terrorism. He emphasized the importance of⁣ unity, stating that the “teachings of ⁤Lord Christ celebrate love, harmony and brotherhood and⁣ it is ⁣important for ⁤all to ​work to make ‌this spirit stronger.”

Beyond the message⁣ of peace, Modi also highlighted India’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad.He shared​ a personal anecdote, saying, “It was a very satisfactory moment for me when we ⁣safely brought Father​ Alexis Prem Kumar from war-torn Afghanistan a decade back.‍ He was stuck there for eight ⁢months and was in hostage… For us, all these missions are not mere diplomatic missions but an emotional commitment to bring⁢ back family members.” ‌ This anecdote⁤ underscores ⁤India’s proactive approach to citizen ⁤safety, a sentiment that ⁤resonates with the⁤ concerns of manny ⁢nations regarding their citizens’ well-being in volatile regions.

Modi concluded his remarks by noting the recent elevation ⁤of His Eminence ‍George Koovakad to Cardinal by Pope Francis,‌ calling it “a moment of pride.” His attendance at the CBCI headquarters marked a⁢ historic frist for an Indian Prime minister, further emphasizing the​ significance of interfaith relations in the‌ country.

Modi’s participation in these Christmas events serves as a powerful symbol⁤ of⁣ religious tolerance and a call for global unity in the face of shared challenges. His message resonates not only⁢ within India but also globally, reminding us ⁤of the‍ importance of interfaith dialog and the collective responsibility to combat terrorism and protect innocent lives.

Modi’s Christmas‌ Call for Unity: An Interview with Dr.Amrita Patel

Maya Shankar, Senior Editor: Welcome back to World ⁣Today News. Joining us today is Dr. Amrita⁢ Patel, a leading expert on South Asian religious ‍relations and author of the forthcoming‍ book, “Faith and Politics in ‌Modern India.” Dr.Patel, thank you for ​being with us.

Dr.​ Amrita Patel: It’s a pleasure ⁢to be here. Thank you for having me.

Maya Shankar: Let’s talk about Prime Minister Modi’s recent participation in​ Christmas celebrations and‍ his pointed remarks about global terrorism. What do you ​make of this message, particularly coming from such a prominent figure in a Hindu-majority nation?

Dr. Amrita Patel: It’s notable on multiple levels. Prime Minister Modi’s attendance at the Christmas program hosted by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of india was, in itself, historic, marking⁣ the first time an Indian Prime Minister has done so. This signals ⁣a commitment to interfaith dialog ⁢and religious harmony, particularly vital in ‌the ⁣Indian context.

But⁤ his message went‌ further. By directly referencing the German Christmas market attack and the Sri Lankan Easter bombings, he underscored the global nature of the terror ⁣threat and the need for unified action. This resonates well beyond India’s borders, particularly considering recent events.

Maya Shankar: He ‌also emphasized India’s commitment⁣ to ‍protecting its citizens ‌abroad, citing the rescue of ​Father Alexis Prem Kumar from Afghanistan. How does this fit ‌into the broader context of his message?

Dr. Amrita Patel: It reinforces the message of protection and solidarity. By highlighting a specific case, he personalized the issue, moving beyond abstract discussions of terrorism to a ‌story of individual human⁣ lives at⁤ risk. It sends a clear signal that India is committed to protecting its people, wherever they may be. This also‍ strengthens his⁣ call for global cooperation, implying‍ that the fight against‌ terrorism is ⁤a⁢ shared duty.

Maya Shankar: Do‌ you believe this ⁢emphasis on unity and interfaith dialogue is ⁣a shift in India’s approach ⁣to global politics?

Dr. Amrita Patel: It’s too early to say definitively. however, Prime Minister Modi’s actions and words do suggest a conscious effort to emphasize common ground and shared values, particularly in the face of challenges like terrorism. Whether this signifies a broader strategic shift remains to be seen.